How 16 Years of Kids Bowl Free Has Transformed Dynasty Lanes

For over 16 years, Dynasty Lanes in rural Ohio has seen tremendous success participating in the Kids Bowl Free summer league program. Owner Lew Sims credits the program with keeping his center open year-round and growing both youth and adult league participation.

When Sims first joined Kids Bowl Free in its second year, he saw an immediate impact. "Our summers were iffy at best before, but that first year was really good," Sims recalls. He was even able to start a homeschool league through the program that lasted 12 years.

That initial success set the stage for steady growth. Today, Dynasty Lanes is busier than ever in both summer and winter thanks to Kids Bowl Free. Their youth leagues are at record numbers this year. Sims has also gained several adult league bowlers who were introduced to the sport through the free game program as children.

The data collected through Kids Bowl Free registrations provides ongoing marketing opportunities for Sims. He uses mail and phone outreach to promote special events like New Year's Eve parties. Group outings from local schools are also drawn to Dynasty Lanes knowing about the free bowling incentive.

Sims' recommendation for any center on the fence is to give Kids Bowl Free a try. "It's not really free - you're getting all this data on families you can use year-round," he stresses. A $15 summer shoe rental pass alone generates significant extra revenue. Most importantly, the long-term farm system Kids Bowl Free creates through repeat visits and league play more than makes up for the initial "free" games offered.

After 16 successful years, Lew Sims is a true believer in the impact of Kids Bowl Free. His center's transformation proves how the program pays dividends for centers willing to invest in its marketing potential.